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Ava DuVernay , Janelle Monáe, Chris Rock, and Cynthia Erivo are among over 400 Hollywood filmmakers, writers, actors, and musicians who signed an open letter urging President Trump’s administration not to roll back copyright protections at the request of AI companies. The creatives penned the letter in response to recent submissions to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), during which Google and OpenAI asserted that U.S. copyright law should permit AI companies to train their systems on copyrighted works without needing permission or compensation from the rights holders, according to Variety. “We firmly believe that America’s global AI leadership must not come at the expense of our essential creative industries,” the letter states. “America’s arts and entertainment industry supports over 2.3 million American jobs with over $229 billion in wages annually while providing the foundation for American democratic influence and soft power abroad. But AI companies are asking...
The rhythm of ambition often starts quietly—a hum of potential that builds into a bold symphony. For IntusCare, the journey began in the halls of Brown University, where co-founders Evan Jackson and Robbie Felton turned their vision for eldercare into reality, with Stevie Wonder’s song “Sir Duke,” setting the tone for their path forward. Much like a timeless Stevie Wonder groove that lingers long after the music fades, IntusCare’s journey from pitch competitions to industry innovation has been driven by harmony, persistence, and an unwavering belief in its mission. Rooted In Mission: A Personal Commitment To Equitable Care Founded five years ago, IntusCare set out to disrupt the healthcare status quo and deliver high-quality care to low-income older adults — a population often left behind by systemic inequities. Their mission is deeply anchored in serving diverse, marginalized communities, including Black, Latino, and Asian American populations, who have historically faced...
Quinta Brunson, creator of “Abbott Elementary,” has received a major pay increase for her role in the show. Premiered via ABC on Dec. 7, 2021, the Emmy-winning sitcom took inspiration from her sixth-grade teacher, Ms. Abbott, who was instrumental in helping her navigate a new school after attending the one where her mother taught for five years, according to NPR. “I was scared to go into the real world or what I looked at as the real world at the time, and [Ms. Abbott] just took me under her wing,” Brunson, who plays Janine Teagues, told the outlet. “She was an incredible teacher who put her all into it, making sure that her students felt special and were ready for the world.” “Abbott Elementary,” depicts the experience of attending a Philadelphia, PA, school in a predominantly Black area. Its humor has been the superpower of the mockumentary-style show, supported by Brunson — who also serves as executive producer and a co-writer — and her castmates, including Tyler James Williams...
Most young football players only aspire to make it to the NFL , but few get the opportunity to play on those famous stadium fields. When Haason Reddick was selected as the 13th overall first-round pick in the 2017 Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, he knew he had to make his presence felt. Before going pro the 29-year-old played college ball at Temple University , but after successful seasons on three different NFL teams, the fourth is keeping the star linebacker from playing amid a contract dispute . How might Haason Reddick’s net worth be impacted by the unfolding drama? Keep reading to find out. What Is Haason Reddick’s Net Worth? (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) According to TWSN , the two-time Pro Bowl defensive is worth $15 million as of 2024. This number is considerably lower than his estimated career earnings of $34.895M, but Reddick is plotting some money moves that he hopes will keep both numbers climbing. Over the next two years, projections estimate the embattled New...
Pioneer Opal Lee has received the keys to her new home. As AFROTECH™ previously reported, in 1939, 12-year-old Lee along with her family were removed from their home in Fort Worth, TX, by a racist white mob. “Just to know that there might be children that we could have played with, that we might have known their families,” Lee told CBS News Texas. “We just wanted to be good neighbors, that’s all.” The outlet also notes Lee never lost hope that she would one day own that very land. Her wishes would come true in January 2024 when she received a homecoming and a cquired ownership of the land that was stripped from her family. Building on this milestone, a home was recently constructed for Lee on the property, and she has received the keys to her new home. She was given the property for $10 thanks to North Texas organizations such as Trinity Habitat for Humanity and Texas Capital. Additionally, HistoryMaker Homes is credited for building the home free of charge, and JCPenney aided to...
In the vibrant tapestry of Black American culture, a concept emerges that celebrates certain movies as “Blassics.” This term, a fusion of ‘Black’ and ‘Classics,’ is a testament to the unique stories of Black Americans and their experiences brought to life through films starring Black actors. These films, often featuring familiar faces like Angela Bassett, Nia Long, and Taye Diggs, are not just movies but cultural milestones. They have left an indelible mark on the industry and include films like “Waiting to Exhale, “Friday,” “School Daze,” and “The Best Man,” resonating deeply with the culture’s shared experiences and heritage. Of those listed, Diggs may be most recently known for his appearance on the CW’s “All American,” portraying former NFL player and high school football coach Billy Baker. However, his career has roots much deeper than the teenage-themed drama series. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taye Diggs (@tayediggsinsta) Diggs, a native of Rochester, NY,...
Spelman College students have been reigning undefeated for the Goldman Sachs Market Madness Competition through the HBCU Possibilities Program. In April 2024, Victoria Cain, Makhi Frempong, Olivia Rivera-Spann, and Symone Thompson won the pitch competition and its $1 million top prize, according to a news release. The victory marks the HBCU’s third win in four years. “Emerging victorious in the Goldman Sachs Market Madness competition is a genuine reflection of our unwavering perseverance, meticulousness and the goodness of God,” said Frempong, who is an economics major, according to the news release. “This exceptional contest provided us with a platform to hone our abilities and visualize our forthcoming roles as analysts in the industry. It is a remarkable feat to be part of Spelman’s enduring heritage by virtue of our hard work. This journey has been truly extraordinary, demonstrating our growth as professionals in an astonishing manner.” The win came after Frempong, Cain,...
Jalen Hurts is helping to tackle an issue that greatly affects the majority of schools in Philadelphia, PA. According to ABC News, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback donated $200,000 to provide air conditioner units to Philadelphia schools. The donation is set to cover rewiring and changing the infrastructure of the buildings — alleviating overheated classrooms during warm seasons. “I think back to my time as a student not being able to imagine some of the things that you guys have to go through,” Hurts expressed at a school in Philadelphia, per ABC News. “I just want to serve you guys and help in any way I can.” According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, 41% of schools in the U.S. schools need HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) upgrades, which equates to 36,000 public schools. Combatting the alarming statistics specifically in Philadelphia, Hurts’ $200,000 donation will bring 300 AC units to 10 schools, which will support over 5,000 students along with...
Angela Bassett is set to be honored in Atlanta, GA. In May 2024, the legendary actress will receive an honorary degree from Spelman College, according to WSB-TV 2 in Atlanta. What’s more, it was announced that Bassett is set to give the commencement speech to the HBCU’s class of 2024. “Spelman College is honored to have acclaimed actress and director Angela Bassett to bring words of inspiration to our graduating Class of 2024,” Spelman College President Dr. Helene D. Gayle said, according to the outlet. She continued, “Her work has had a tremendous impact both on and off the screen and serves as an example for our students to lead in their own spaces.” In addition to Bassett, Spelman College will honor Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, award-winning journalist Rose Scott, and Reverend Dr. Yvette Flunder. Gayle says she looks forward to the honorees being a source of inspiration for not only the class of 2024 but also their families and the overall Spelman College...
David C. Williams’ innovative spirit remained a driving force in his journey to overcome obstacles and significantly impact the tech space. The engineer was born in Dallas, TX, in what he describes as the “poorest corner of the city.” At an early age, he became an avid reader, consuming up to eight books a week at times, he says. Williams’ inquisitive nature was further fueled as he read more books , and he maintained this even in the face of adversity. He lost his home in a fire, and at the age of 8 his father died by suicide. “There’s a quote that Einstein has that says ‘innovation is born out of necessity.’ And when I combine that creativity that my parents started me off with and the hardships that were soon to follow, losing my dad or the house fire — just all sorts of things that went on — I never let go of the creativity,” Williams told AFROTECH™. He continued, “Many people who live or come from underserved communities have a lot of ingenuity. And I figured out that...
Ray J has launched a new television network. The singer and entrepreneur just launched a television platform, Tronix Network, on Monday, March 25, 2024. While the R&B singer started out in the music industry, creating hits such as “Wait A Minute” in 2001 and “One Wish” in 2005, he has since tapped into his business side and ventured into other areas to generate revenue. Before deciding to create a new TV network, Ray J was known for his time investing in the tech industry. He first broke ground in 2016 with his Scoot-E bike brand, which launched through his electronics company Raytroniks. In 2019, the brand was acquired by micro-mobility and ride-sharing company LOOPShare in a deal reportedly worth about $34 million, per The Source. Ray J also supposedly walked away with more than 18 million common shares in LOOPShare, according to the outlet. He strengthened his presence in the sector, pivoting to Raycon Global, which he co-founded in 2017, as AFROTECH™ previously told you. “We...
Pharrell Williams’ action of clearing student debt has contributed to a good cause. As AFROTECH™ previously told you, the record producer and philanthropist surprised five NAACP student leaders with the news at the start of the Something In the Water Festival in Washington D.C. on June 17, 2022. Among the recipients at the time were Robyn Hughes, a junior at Southern University; Damarius Davis, an alumni of North Carolina A&T; Jamie Turner, an alumni of Norfolk State University; Channing Hill, a senior at Howard University; and Devan Vilfrard, a senior at Florida A&M University. Breaking: #SomethingInTheWater just announced they’re paying the student debt of all 6 panelists/NAACP members! #CancelStudentDebt pic.twitter.com/BqBS9AqIoc — NAACP (@NAACP) June 17, 2022 “Throughout my 3 years at Howard University I had personally accumulated over $18,000 in student loan debt and that figure becomes multiplied when you add on the loans my parents have accumulated,” Hill wrote in her...
Quinta Brunson’s rise in entertainment continues to gain recognition. According to a news release, the Philadelphia, PA, native is set to receive an honorary degree from the city’s Temple University. She will first be presented with the 2024 Lew Klein Excellence in the Media Award for her efforts to uplift underrepresented voices in entertainment on Tuesday, May 7, per CBS News. During the commencement ceremony the following day, she will serve as the school’s commencement speaker and receive her honorary degree. “I am simply honored,” Brunson said i n the news release. Temple President Richard M. Englert, shared in a statement: “We are thrilled to recognize Quinta Brunson for her remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to her craft. Quinta embodies the spirit of Temple’s commitment to creativity, innovation and social impact. Her talent, authenticity and trailblazing spirit inspire us all.” For Brunson, recognized for her successful ABC series “Abbott Elementary,” where...
Stevie Wonder needs no introduction. With a career that spans more than six decades, countless hits and awards to his name, no one questions whether the gifted music artist has earned his flowers. His musical genius has touched pop, R&B, progressive soul, jazz and gospel music. He is not only a master of performance, he is also a prolific songwriter and producer. Award winning albums like “Songs in the Key of Life”, “Innervisions”, and “Fulfillingness’ First Finale” have solidified him as an icon in the industry. He even performed at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, further enshrining him as a pop cultural superstar around the world. With all of his accolades, you might wonder exactly how much Stevie Wonder is worth in 2023. Stevie Wonder’s Early Life Stevie Wonder was born Stevland Hardaway Morris in 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan. Because he was born six weeks premature and was kept in an oxygen-rich incubator, he suffered from retinopathy of prematurity. This means that his eyes failed to...
This week, Naomi Campbell was a part of the stars kicking off New York Fashion Week (NYFW) with what she’s described as a “dream come true.” On Sept. 5, the supermodel debuted her clothing collection, PrettyLittleThing x Naomi Campbell, according to Los Angeles Times. The collaboration, based on her popular 1990s fashion looks, came together with the help of Black designers Victor Anate and Edvin Thompson.